Adult occupant

The passenger compartment remained stable in the frontal impact. Dummy readings indicated good protection of the kness and femurs of the driver and passenger. Subaru showed that a similar level of protection would be provided to occupants of different sizes and to those sat in different seating positions. In the side barrier test, the Forester scored maximum points, with good protection of all body regions. In the more severe side pole impact, dummy readings of rib compression indicated marginal protection of the chest. However, the seat and head restraint provided good protection against whiplash injuries in the event of a rear-end collision.

Child occupant

The front passenger airbag of the Forester is off by default, allowing a rearward facing child restraint to be safely used in that seating position. The airbag is turned on only when an occupant of a suitable size is detected in the seat. The system met Euro NCAP's requirements and was rewarded.

Pedestrian

The bumper scored maximum points for the protection it provided to pedestrians' legs. However, the front edge of the bonnet was poor in all areas tested and scored no points. In most areas where the bonnet would be struck by the head of an adult or that of a child, the bonnet provided good protection against serious injury.

Safety assist

Electronic stability control, seatbelt reminders for front and rear seats, and a driver-set speed limitation device are all standard equipment on the Subaru Forester and met Euro NCAP's test requirements.